ear Editor,
The reggae fraternity has lost another potent and distinctive voice in the death of Gregory Isaacs. After launching his music career in the late ’60s, Gregory toiled during the very turbulent days of reggae in the 1970s determined to make his voice heard, recognized and loved by the ‘reggae massive.’
Upon signing to Island Records (which was the label responsible for launching Bob Marley’s mainstream reggae career), Gregory Isaacs released the critically acclaimed and arguably his best album Night Nurse in 1982. This album became the standard for lovers’ rock reggae and introduced Gregory Isaacs to the world as the Cool Ruler; which incidentally was the title of one of his earlier less successful albums.
Night Nurse remains an iconic piece of work because each track on the album had been expertly arranged and performed in a manner that gives distinctive character to each piece. From the desperate plea for personal attention by his late-night nurse, to his sincere apology sugar coated with all the contrition of a lonely ‘loverman’ in Objection Overruled, none can deny that Gregory Isaacs knew his way around the ladies. Just listen to the lyrics for Stranger in Your Town and you will get the picture that Gregory Isaacs could ‘sweet talk’ his way around any female. He even chided men who engaged in domestic violence on the track Not the Way.
Gregory did lots of work after Night Nurse that yielded powerful singles that will forever be remembered. Lovers’ Rock aside, Gregory Isaacs did some very militant songs that were delivered with the same sincerity as his love ballads. Songs like Rumours, Tribal War, Mind You Dis, and Rough Neck are just a few that readily come to mind.
Gregory had his troubles like we all do, but his musical career was exemplary and should be what we all should remember about him. His easy delivery, unique balance of vocals and rhythm and his pointed lyrics that spoke to the heart of those who listened to his music, will forever give Gregory Isaacs legendary status.
Night Nurse will continue to play for generations to come. And when songs like Cool Down the Pace, Hot Stepper, Stranger In Your Town, Hush Darling, Tune In and Objection Overruled are played, couples will lock tight and rock. Those who are alone at the party will stand firm on the spot they choose and rock steady to the late Cool Ruler!
Yours faithfully,
Richard Francois
